Wasatch Regional Council updates 2050 transportation plan with 11 new projects

The Regional Growth Committee meeting held on May 15, 2025, in Wasatch County, Utah, focused on significant updates to land use and transportation planning in the region. The discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration among local communities to address complex issues such as housing and transportation.

Key points included the successful integration of community feedback into the Wasatch Choice vision, which aims to create a cohesive land use plan that reflects current realities and future aspirations. Committee members emphasized the need for updated land use plans to inform regional transportation strategies, ensuring that infrastructure investments align with community needs.

Professor Ewing from the university presented research on polycentric development, advocating for a multi-centered approach to urban planning. He noted that regions with interconnected centers and high-quality transit options experience reduced vehicle miles traveled and increased walking and transit use. This model is becoming the dominant paradigm in regional planning across the United States.

Mayor Ramsey of Sandy City expressed the importance of building trust with local communities during the planning process. He highlighted the need for nuanced planning that incorporates local voices and expertise, which leads to more effective transportation solutions. The mayor also called for enhanced planning for east-west connections between Sandy and South Jordan.

The meeting concluded with a proposal for an amendment to the 2023-2050 regional transportation plan, which includes 11 new projects aimed at improving regional connectivity. The committee's collaborative efforts and focus on community input are seen as vital steps toward addressing the region's growth challenges and enhancing transportation infrastructure.